OpenMediaVault
OpenMediaVault
Free Debian-based file server with a web GUI. Lightweight option for basic NAS needs, including Raspberry Pi and tiny x86 boxes.
Overview
OpenMediaVault sits on top of Debian and adds a web GUI for managing storage, shares (SMB / NFS / FTP), users, and plugins. The core is intentionally minimal; everything extra (Docker, ZFS, BTRFS quotas) lives in plugins. Runs on x86-64 and ARM (Raspberry Pi, Odroid, etc.), making it the easiest way to NAS-ify a single-board computer or old PC.
Pros
- Free and open source under AGPLv3
- Runs on Raspberry Pi and other low-end ARM hardware
- Plugin system for ZFS, BTRFS, Docker, etc.
- Lightweight install, modest resource needs
- Debian under the hood means familiar tools
- Active community + extras repository
Cons
- Less polished than DSM / TrueNAS GUIs
- Plugins required for many advanced features
- Smaller community than TrueNAS / Synology
- GUI shows its Debian roots
- Documentation can be sparse for plugins
- Not aimed at non-technical users
Good fit if you
- Repurposing old PC or Raspberry Pi
- Want simple SMB / NFS sharing
- Comfortable with Debian
- Need a minimal, light NAS OS
Bad fit if you
- Want polished GUI experience
- Need integrated apps like Plex out of the box
- Run a critical business workload
- Want a turnkey appliance
Pricing & licensing
OpenMediaVault is free and open source under AGPLv3. No subscriptions, no paid tiers. Hardware is user-supplied.
Hardware
x86-64 PCs from old laptops to repurposed desktops; ARM single-board computers (Raspberry Pi 4/5, Odroid HC4, ROCKPro64). Storage from USB-attached drives to SAS arrays.
Typical use cases
Repurposing an old desktop as a simple NAS. Raspberry Pi NAS with one or two USB-attached drives. Family file server with low admin overhead. Budget archive / backup target.